1990 Volvo 940 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 940. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 940 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 940. (111 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 940. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 940 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.
Because 1990 Volvo 940 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 1990 Volvo 940. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (230 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 940. (157 Nm). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 940.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 940 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 940 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
