2008 Volvo S40 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 97 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
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 Volvo S40 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S40 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1522 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
