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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 31 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40. 2007 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 3246 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
