1998 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S40. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
