2009 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (161 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2009 BMW 323 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 323. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
