1996 Volvo V40 vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia is newer by 12 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40.
Because 2008 Skoda Octavia 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 2008 Skoda Octavia 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. 2008 Skoda Octavia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V40 | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Volvo | Skoda |
| Model | V40 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
