2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 308 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 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2560 mm |
