2003 Subaru Legacy vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 5 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S40. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 193 kg more than 2003 Subaru Legacy.
Because 2003 Subaru Legacy 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy (343 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40. 2003 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Legacy | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Legacy | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
