2007 Volvo S40 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S40 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S40 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
