1994 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | S40 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1214 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 62 L |
