1996 Volvo V40 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 15 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V40 | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | V40 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2685 mm |
