1997 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S40. (299 Nm). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
