1996 Volvo V40 vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 102 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.
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 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V40 | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Volvo | Hyundai |
| Model | V40 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1731 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
