2007 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 BMW 323 is newer by 3 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 2,497 cc, 2007 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 323 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2004 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, 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 (240 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 323. (231 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 323 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1986 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
