1998 Volvo V40 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 179 kg more than 1998 Volvo V40. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo V40 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V40 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
