1991 Volvo 240 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1991 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Volvo 240 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 1991 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volvo 240 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
