1997 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 240 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Holden Commodore (395 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Commodore | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Commodore | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4987 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 395 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
