2009 Acura RL vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 13 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 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 345 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.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL 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, 2009 Acura RL (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Acura | Volvo |
| Model | RL | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 68 L |
