1997 Toyota Camry vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Camry. (134 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Toyota Camry. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Camry. (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Camry. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota Camry has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota Camry will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Camry | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Camry | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2163 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
