2008 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 12 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 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
