2009 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 112 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo C30 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 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
