1992 Volvo 850 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 850 would be higher. Both 1992 Volvo 850 and 2003 Volvo S40 are equipped with a 2,435 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 850. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 850 weights approximately 21 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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, 2003 Volvo S40 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Volvo 850 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
