1997 Skoda Octavia vs. 2010 Volvo S40
To start off, 2010 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Skoda Octavia. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S40 weights approximately 249 kg more than 1997 Skoda Octavia. 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, 2010 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Skoda Octavia. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Skoda Octavia. 2010 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1997 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 1997 Skoda Octavia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Skoda Octavia | 2010 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Skoda | Volvo |
| Model | Octavia | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1514 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
