2008 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volvo V40
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V40. (169 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2004 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40, 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 M3 (365 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo V40. (240 Nm). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2004 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
