2007 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 BMW 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,497 cc, 2007 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 323 weights approximately 272 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 323 (231 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2007 BMW 323 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 323 | S40 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1948 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1218 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |