2007 BMW 325 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 BMW 325 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 (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 325 (216 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 215 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (250 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2007 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 325 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |
