2006 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1798 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
