2008 Volvo S40 vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 429 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX.
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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40. 2003 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S40 | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Volvo | Acura |
| Model | S40 | RSX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1651 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
