2003 Volvo S40 vs. 2011 Toyota Avalon
To start off, 2011 Toyota Avalon is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Avalon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Avalon (268 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Avalon should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Avalon weights approximately 195 kg more than 2003 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, 2011 Toyota Avalon (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Avalon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2011 Toyota Avalon 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. 2011 Toyota Avalon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 2011 Toyota Avalon | |
| Make | Volvo | Toyota |
| Model | S40 | Avalon |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5019 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2819 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
