2004 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette 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 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette (350 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 270 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.
Because 2004 Chevrolet Corvette is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Chevrolet Corvette (486 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Corvette | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Corvette | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5666 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 486 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 68 L |
