2007 BMW 550 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 550 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S40. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo S40.
Because 2007 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 550 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 550 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
