2008 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 316 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 316 | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |