2008 BMW X3 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2006 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, 2006 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2006 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
