2003 Volvo V50 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2005 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2442 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
