2009 Volvo S40 vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 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 36 more horse power than 1997 Volvo C70. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 21 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.
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) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo C70. (270 Nm). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo C70. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo C70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo S40 | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | C70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
