Volvo S40 vs. Volvo S60 — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on November 21, 2023
The Volvo S40 is a compact car, while the Volvo S60 is a mid-size; both names denote series and engine capacity.
Difference Between Volvo S40 and Volvo S60
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The Volvo S40, introduced by the Swedish automaker Volvo Cars, was a compact executive car that gained popularity due to its sleek design and safety features. In contrast, the Volvo S60, positioned a notch above the Volvo S40, was a mid-size executive car offering more space, power, and luxury amenities, reflecting Volvo's attention to comfort and performance.
Manufacturing periods highlight another difference: the Volvo S40 was produced from 1995 to 2012, spanning two generations, whereas the Volvo S60, launched in 2000, has had three generations as of my last update in 2022. Both the Volvo S40 and Volvo S60 have undergone various redesigns and updates throughout their lifecycles.
When it comes to performance, the Volvo S40 was often praised for its efficient engines and practicality for city driving. On the other hand, the Volvo S60 was known for stronger performance options, including high-performance models under Volvo's Polestar division, catering to customers desiring both luxury and speed.
Safety, a hallmark of the Volvo brand, was paramount in both the Volvo S40 and Volvo S60. The Volvo S40 had innovative safety features for its class, while the Volvo S60 was often a pioneer in advanced driver-assistance systems.
Lastly, market positioning played a significant role in the differences between these models. The Volvo S40 targeted a segment that appreciated compact luxury, while the Volvo S60 was aimed at a more premium segment, competing with established mid-size luxury cars.
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Comparison Chart
Size
Compact executive
Mid-size executive
Production
1995-2012
2000-present
Performance
Efficient, practical
Stronger, sportier
Safety Features
Innovative for class
Advanced systems
Market Position
Compact luxury
Premium segment
Compare with Definitions
Volvo S40
"Volvo S40 - a compact executive car."
The Volvo S40 perfectly fits my city lifestyle.
Volvo S60
"Volvo S60 - competes in the premium segment."
My Volvo S60 stands tall among other luxury brands.
Volvo S40
"Volvo S40 - known for fuel efficiency."
My Volvo S40 saves me a fortune on gas.
Volvo S60
"Volvo S60 - known for high-performance variants."
The acceleration in my Volvo S60 is impressively smooth.
Volvo S40
"Volvo S40 - popular for its sleek design."
The stylish design of my Volvo S40 always turns heads.
Volvo S60
"Volvo S60 - features advanced safety systems."
I trust the Volvo S60 to keep my family safe on trips.
Volvo S40
"Volvo S40 - praised for safety innovations."
The Volvo S40's safety features give me peace of mind.
Volvo S60
"Volvo S60 - a mid-size luxury sedan."
My Volvo S60 provides comfort and style in one package.
Volvo S40
"Volvo S40 - offers luxury in a compact model."
Despite its size, my Volvo S40 doesn't compromise on luxury.
Volvo S60
"Volvo S60 - offers more space and comfort."
Long drives are a pleasure in the spacious Volvo S60.
Common Curiosities
When did Volvo stop producing the Volvo S40?
Volvo ceased Volvo S40 production in 2012.
Are both the Volvo S40 and Volvo S60 known for safety?
Yes, both the Volvo S40 and Volvo S60 have strong safety features.
What type of car is the Volvo S40?
The Volvo S40 is a compact executive car.
Which has more luxurious features, the Volvo S40 or the Volvo S60?
The Volvo S60, positioned in a more premium segment, typically has more luxury amenities than the Volvo S40.
Did the Volvo S40 have a sport version?
Yes, there were sportier versions of the Volvo S40, like the T5 and R-Design models.
How does the Volvo S60 differ in size from the Volvo S40?
The Volvo S60 is a mid-size executive car, larger than the compact Volvo S40.
Who would typically buy a Volvo S40?
The Volvo S40 would appeal to individuals or small families seeking a mix of luxury, efficiency, and safety in a compact package.
Is the Volvo S60 a good family car?
Yes, the Volvo S60's size, safety features, and comfort make it suitable for families.
What years was the Volvo S40 in its second generation?
The second generation of the Volvo S40 was from 2004 to 2012.
Is the Volvo S60 more powerful than the Volvo S40?
Generally, the Volvo S60 offers more robust performance options than the Volvo S40.
How do the interiors of the Volvo S40 and Volvo S60 compare?
The Volvo S60 generally offers a more spacious and upscale interior compared to the Volvo S40.
Are the Volvo S40 and Volvo S60 environmentally friendly?
Both have had options for more efficient or hybrid engines, with the Volvo S60 offering more choices as of my last update.
Has the Volvo S60 been redesigned since its inception?
Yes, the Volvo S60 has seen multiple redesigns, with the third generation starting in 2018.
What performance options are available with the Volvo S60?
The Volvo S60 offers several performance variants, including the Polestar-engineered models.
Which is more cost-effective: the Volvo S40 or the Volvo S60?
The Volvo S40 was generally more cost-effective due to its smaller size and less powerful engine options compared to the Volvo S60.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
