1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Mustang 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 1988 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Mustang | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Mustang | S40 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2523 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2670 mm |