2009 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Spark
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volvo S40 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 160 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. (67 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 544 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. 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 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Spark. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Spark has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Spark 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Spark | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | S40 | Spark |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 15.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
