2009 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 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 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2003 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, 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, 2009 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.1 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
