1997 Saturn SL vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 459 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. 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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 2011 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Saturn SL | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Saturn | Volvo |
Model | SL | S40 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1899 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 158 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1514 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4475 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1453 mm |