2008 BMW X5 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 103 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 X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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 X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X5 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
