2008 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 353 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S40 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | S40 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1522 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
