2009 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volvo S40

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40.

Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 2007 Volvo S40
Make BMW Volvo
Model M3 S40
Year Released 2009 2007
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 414 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 295 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 249 km/hour 220 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 11.9 L/100km 8.1 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 17 L/100km 10.7 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 14.9 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L