2004 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1997 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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 (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 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 1997 Volvo S40. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 68 L |
