2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2009 BMW Z4. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 73 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
