2008 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
