2008 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
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 V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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 V40, 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, both vehicles can yield 176 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
