1999 Renault Spider vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Spider would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Spider (296 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (133 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 574 kg more than 1999 Renault Spider.
Because 1999 Renault Spider 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 1999 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 340 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Renault Spider | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3120 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2570 mm |
