2009 Volvo S40 vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (79 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 399 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (107 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo S40 | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Volvo | Renault |
| Model | S40 | 19 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
