1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2005 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC90 is newer by 9 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo XC90 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 968 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.
Because 2005 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2005 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2005 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 68 L |
