2008 BMW 330 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 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 330. 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 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 330. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
