2008 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (161 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 1 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
Because 2008 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | IS | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
