2009 BMW 120 vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 120 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 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 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 120 | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 120 | S40 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1514 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4475 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |