2004 Volvo S60 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 400 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 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S60 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S60 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
