2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Explorer (427 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (240 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.4 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
