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 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 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 302 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2007 BMW 325 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). 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 | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 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 |
