1998 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 2,434 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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, 2005 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2005 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
