2007 BMW 120 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2007 BMW 120. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 303 kg more than 2007 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 120 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 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 BMW 120 (330 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 120 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
