2008 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 183 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 320 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 299 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 89.9 mm |
Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1653 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |