2005 Ford Taurus vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 80 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 Ford Taurus (266 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Taurus | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus | S40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2560 mm |
