2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus X 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 Ford Taurus X 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 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus X | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2560 mm |
