2008 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Toyota RAV4 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 82 kg more than 2008 Toyota RAV4.
Because 2008 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota RAV4 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | RAV4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3546 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
