1998 Ford Focus 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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 224 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
