2008 BMW 116 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 116 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 BMW 116. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 171 kg more than 2008 BMW 116. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 116 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 2008 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 116. (150 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 116.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 116 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 116 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
