2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S40. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2009 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
