1997 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Suzuki Samurai | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volvo |
| Model | Samurai | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2560 mm |
