2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 295 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, 2005 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2005 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
