2009 Volvo S40 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo S40 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 58 L |
