1987 Toyota Corolla vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 399 kg more than 1987 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (136 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Toyota Corolla | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Corolla | S40 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 162 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
