2008 BMW 335 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 335 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S40. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 113 kg more than 2008 BMW 335.
Because 2008 BMW 335 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 335. 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, 2008 BMW 335 (400 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40. 2008 BMW 335 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 335 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 335 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 335 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
