1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 442 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
