1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
