1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
