2003 Subaru R2 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 7 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (52 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru R2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (64 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | R2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2560 mm |
