2007 Alpina B5 vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Alpina B5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 389 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alpina B5 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1997 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Alpina B5 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 2007 Alpina B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2007 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 557 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S40. 2007 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alpina B5 | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | B5 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
