2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
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 V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 2,697 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Audi A4 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2697 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
