2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500.
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 Fiat 500 (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 500 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2570 mm |
