2008 BMW 118 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2008 BMW 118. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 118 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 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (240 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 118. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 118 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 118 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
