2006 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 525 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
Because 2006 BMW 525 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 525. (251 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
