1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 14 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Mustang | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
