2009 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 525. 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 525 (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
