1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (138 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (115 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate weights approximately 32 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
Because 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate 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 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (183 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. (163 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Graduate | S40 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
