1998 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S40. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo S40.
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, 2009 Volvo S40 (241 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Contour | S40 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |