1996 Volvo V40 vs. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 16 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 445 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, 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (229 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe 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. 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V40 | 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
| Make | Volvo | Hyundai |
| Model | V40 | Santa Fe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4685 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
