Volvo S40

Subcompact executive car/Small family car (C)

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer	Volvo Cars
Production	1995–2012 (1,026,401 produced) S40: 602,910 produced V40 (1995–2004): 423,491 produced
Class	Subcompact executive car/Small family car (C)
Body style	4-door saloon (S40) 5-door estate (V40)
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or four-wheel-driveThe second generation only.
Engine	ubl
Transmission	5-speed Renault M3P manual 5-speed Renault M5P/M5D manual 5-speed Volvo M56 manual 4-speed Aisin AW50-42LE automatic 5-speed Aisin AW55-50 automatic
Wheelbase	1995–2001: 2550 mm (100.4 in) 2002–2004: 2557 mm (100.7 in)
Length	2000–2001: 4470 mm (176.0 in) 2002–2004: 4521 mm (178.0 in)
Width	2000–2001: 1720 mm (67.7 in) 2002–2004: 1717 mm (67.6 in)
Height	2000–2001: 1410 mm (55.5 in) 2002–2004: 1423–1426 mm (56.0–56.1 in)
Weight	S40: 1220–1392 kg (2,690–3,069 lb) V40: 1234–1414 kg (2,721–3,117 lb)
Assembly	Netherlands: Born (NedCar) Malaysia: Shah Alam (SMA) Botswana: Gaborone (TMBC) South Africa: Pretoria (Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa) Thailand: Samut Prakarn (Thai-Swedish Assembly Co. Ltd.)
Predecessor	Volvo 440/460
Successor	Volvo V40 II Polestar 2
Generations	E85, Mk2, S40, V40, P1, S60, V50, B416, I4, B418, S2, S3, B419, G9, G93, B420, F9, D419, M3, M5, M56, W50, W55, S4, F4, S1, F586, T4, C1, V8, Y01, T2, T3, T5, C90, C70, C30, J192, D48, D483, E3, D4, F44, D25, L8, B524, I5, B525, D416, W10, D420, D5, D3, D520, D524, M66, F33, Y07, T7, S11, S8, S5, D2, T8, T9, T13, C3, B6, F21, O2, V60, C40, X40, S70

At a Glance

Brand	Volvo
Class	Subcompact executive car/Small family car (C)
Body style	4-door saloon (S40)
Production	1995–2012 (1,026,401 produced)
Founded	1927
Country	Sweden

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Volvo — Brand Guide, History & Model Overview

Founded1927
FounderAssar Gabrielsson & Gustaf Larson
HeadquartersGothenburg, Sweden
CountrySweden
Models listed29

About Volvo

Volvo is a Swedish manufacturer founded in 1927, world-renowned for pioneering safety, understated Scandinavian design and a commitment to full electrification.

On this page you will find the complete Volvo model range with detailed technical data, dimensions, engine and transmission information, plus genuine owner reviews. Whether you are researching Volvo specifications, comparing trims, or reading real-world Volvo reviews before you buy, our catalogue currently lists 29 Volvo models to explore.

History & Heritage

Volvo was founded in 1927 by Assar Gabrielsson & Gustaf Larson, and is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden. Over the decades the brand has grown from its early roots into a name recognised by drivers around the world, shaped by its engineering choices, design language and the people who build and drive its cars.

Understanding a manufacturer's heritage helps put its current cars in context. Each generation of Volvo models reflects the priorities of its era, from mechanical layout and powertrain technology to safety systems and interior comfort. The specifications on this site let you trace how Volvo vehicles have evolved in size, power and equipment over time.

Mission & Vision

Mission: To provide freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way.

Vision: To be the world's most progressive and safe luxury car brand.

The brand is often associated with its slogan, “For Life”, which captures the character it aims to deliver in every model.

These guiding principles influence everything from how Volvo engineers its platforms to the way it prices and equips its cars, and they are a useful lens when weighing up a Volvo against rival brands.

Volvo Model Lineup

The current Volvo catalogue on AutoSpecs includes the following models. Click any model to see its full specifications, dimensions and reviews:

From compact and city-friendly options to larger family and performance models, the Volvo range offers a variety of body styles and powertrains. Use our comparison tool to place any two Volvo models side by side, or compare a Volvo against a completely different brand.

Design, Technology & Performance

Volvo models are described on this site with the technical detail buyers care about: engine type and displacement, transmission, drivetrain layout, wheelbase, length, width, height and kerb weight. These figures are essential when you are judging performance potential, interior space, efficiency and everyday practicality.

Comparing Volvo specifications across models makes it easy to see the trade-offs between a smaller, lighter car and a larger, more powerful one. Dimensions affect how a car parks, corners and carries passengers and luggage, while engine and transmission details hint at how it will feel to drive. Reading the numbers alongside real owner reviews gives a rounded picture before a test drive.

Buying & Ownership Guide

If you are shopping for a Volvo, it pays to research thoroughly. Look at the Volvo price for the trim you want, compare it with rivals, and check the specification sheet for the equipment that matters to you. Whether you are considering a new Volvo or a used Volvo, matching the model's dimensions and engine to your needs helps avoid buyer's remorse.

Owner reviews are one of the most valuable resources when buying a car. On each Volvo model page you can read comments from real drivers and add your own experience, covering reliability, running costs, comfort and everyday usability. Together with the detailed spec tables, these reviews help you make a confident, well-informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Volvo models are listed on AutoSpecs?

We currently list 29 Volvo models with full specifications, dimensions and owner reviews, including Volvo 200 Series, Volvo 440/460, Volvo 440/460.

When was Volvo founded?

Volvo was founded in 1927, and is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Where is Volvo from?

Volvo is associated with Sweden and is based in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Where can I find Volvo specifications and dimensions?

Every Volvo model page on AutoSpecs includes a detailed specification table with engine, transmission, wheelbase, length, width, height and weight, so you can compare Volvo specs quickly.

Can I compare Volvo models with other cars?

Yes. Use our comparison tool to place two cars side by side. You can compare two Volvo models, or compare a Volvo against any other brand to see the differences in specs.