2003 Volvo S40 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (124 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Volvo | Oldsmobile |
| Model | S40 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
