2009 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S60 weights approximately 104 kg more than 2009 BMW 318.
Because 2009 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60, 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, 2012 Volvo S60 (3,200 Nm) has 2900 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (300 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318. 2012 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 3200 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
