2008 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S40 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka. 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, 1997 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Ka | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
