2008 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 229 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 525 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 525. 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, 2008 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
