2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
