2006 Volvo V50 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 228 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50. 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V50. (231 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo V50 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| 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 | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| 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 | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
