1993 Ford Contour vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Ford Contour (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Ford Contour weights approximately 83 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 1993 Ford Contour (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1993 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Contour | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | S40 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1313 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
