1998 Ferrari 456M vs. 2003 Volvo S40

To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari 456M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari 456M would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 456M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 456M (435 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 456M should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 456M weights approximately 252 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Ferrari 456M is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Ferrari 456M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Ferrari 456M (550 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari 456M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ferrari 456M 2003 Volvo S40
Make Ferrari Volvo
Model 456M S40
Year Released 1998 2003
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5474 cc 2327 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 435 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 550 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.6:1 10.3:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.5 seconds 10.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1438 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1930 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2600 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 110 L 62 L