1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 895 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Chevrolet Express (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Express | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2650 mm |
