2009 BMW 120 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 6 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 168 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
