2009 BMW 330 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S40. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 22 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (500 Nm) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 248 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
