1998 Lexus GS vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Lexus GS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus GS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 432 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Lexus GS (301 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus GS | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | GS | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 68 L |
