1996 Volvo V40 vs. 1999 Honda S-MX

To start off, 1999 Honda S-MX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,972 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda S-MX weights approximately 90 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo V40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda S-MX 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, 1999 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 1999 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Volvo V40 1999 Honda S-MX
Make Volvo Honda
Model V40 S-MX
Year Released 1996 1999
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 1972 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 104 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 143 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1240 kg 1330 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2510 mm