1998 Volvo S40 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S40 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
