2007 Volvo S40 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 189 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S40 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1419 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
