2004 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 62 kg more than 2003 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 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Optima | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
