2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 652 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
