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 3 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 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 130 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2009 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
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 | 215 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 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 |
