2008 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 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 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 318. 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, 2008 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 318 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 318 | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2327 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |