1990 Subaru XT vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Subaru XT 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 82 more horse power than 1990 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1990 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1990 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Subaru XT | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | XT | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
