2008 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 75 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, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |