1991 Toyota Starlet vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1991 Toyota Starlet. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1991 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 728 kg more than 1991 Toyota Starlet. 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Toyota Starlet | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Starlet | S40 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
