2009 Volvo V50 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (216 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo V50 weights approximately 173 kg more than 2003 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 V50 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2009 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo V50 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1598 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
