2009 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 330 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |
