2007 Volvo S40 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 191 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40. 2011 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2007 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S40 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S40 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1419 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
