2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Elantra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1058 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
