2008 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Volvo V40
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1997 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1997 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo V40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1997 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
