2004 Volvo XC90 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo XC90 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 2,901 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo XC90 (268 HP) has 130 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 681 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.
Because 2004 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo XC90 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 XC90 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo XC90 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2106 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 62 L |
