2008 BMW 530 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 452 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 530 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
