2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 564 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 Audi A4 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 Audi A4 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 Audi A4 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1794 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
