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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 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 655 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 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.
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 | 2979 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2080 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
