2007 BMW 323 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc, 2007 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 323 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
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, 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 323. (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 323. 2007 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 323 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1948 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
