2004 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 8 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 765 kg more than 1996 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 68 L |
