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 2,917 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo XC90 (268 HP) has 179 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP) 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 788 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 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 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 | 1870 cc | 2917 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2018 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2760 mm |
