1996 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (217 HP) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 378 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
