1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 13 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 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 351 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S80 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. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2840 mm |
