2009 Subaru Forester vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Subaru Forester is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Forester (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S40. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 218 kg more than 2009 Subaru Forester.
Because 2009 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Forester (306 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 2009 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40. 2009 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Subaru Forester | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Forester | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
