1996 Honda Accord 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 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord 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 64 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (104 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 88 kg more than 1996 Honda Accord. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (210 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Accord | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Accord | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1345 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
