2008 Saturn Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 530 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 58 L |
