2006 Volvo V50 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 10 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 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 207 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo V50 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2442 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
