2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S40 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. 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, 1997 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1386 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
