2009 BMW 325 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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 325 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 12 more horse power than 2009 BMW 325. (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 194 kg more than 2009 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 325. (271 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1514 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
