2008 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 361 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
