2001 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2001 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 5 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Vauxhall Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 160 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.
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, 2001 Vauxhall Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2001 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Vauxhall Astra | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
