2008 Toyota Highlander vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 29 kg more than 2005 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40. 2008 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2005 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2005 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota Highlander | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Highlander | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3546 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 62 L |
