1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 12 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 304 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1534 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2720 mm |
