2008 BMW 120 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 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 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 120. 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, 2008 BMW 120 (330 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (240 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
