1996 Volvo S40 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 424 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2670 mm |
