2001-2004 Volvo S40 FWD 1.9L

Overview

The Volvo S40, produced between 2001 and 2004, represents the latter half of the first generation of Volvo’s compact executive offering. Developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors, the vehicle shared its platform and manufacturing facility in Born, Netherlands, with the Mitsubishi Carisma. This partnership allowed Volvo to enter the premium compact segment with a vehicle that prioritized safety and ergonomics, core tenets of the brand’s identity at the time.

The 1.9-liter naturally aspirated engine served as the entry-level powertrain for the North American market. Designed to offer a balance of efficiency and daily drivability, this 4-cylinder unit was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. While the S40 was also available in a turbocharged variant, the base 1.9L model focused on providing a refined, comfortable experience for urban commuters. Its styling reflected the transition in Volvo’s design language, moving away from the boxy aesthetics of the 1980s toward the smoother, rounded profiles that defined the early 2000s.

Inside, the S40 emphasized functionality, featuring a driver-centric dashboard and high-quality materials that aligned with Volvo’s reputation for durability. Safety remained a primary focus, with the inclusion of the Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and multiple airbags as standard equipment. Although it faced stiff competition from German rivals, the S40 carved out a niche for buyers seeking a compact sedan that offered a distinct alternative to the mainstream Japanese and domestic offerings of the era.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volvo
Model	S40 FWD
Model Year	2001-2004
Generation	1st Generation (Phase II)
Trim	1.9i
Body Style	4-door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Compact Executive
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Volvo P1/Mitsubishi P1
Assembly Plant	Born, Netherlands
Country of Origin	Netherlands
Production Start	2000
Production End	2004
VIN Identifier	YV1
Base MSRP	$23,000
Destination Charge	$600
Total MSRP	$23,600
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Volvo Modular Engine
Engine Name	B4204S2
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	1.9 Liters
Bore x Stroke	83 mm x 88 mm
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-point Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.0 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-30
Horsepower	122 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	122 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane	91
EPA City MPG	19
EPA Highway MPG	28
EPA Combined MPG	22
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	10.7
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	15.8
Estimated Driving Range	347 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	9.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	–
Top Speed	125 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	135 ft
Lateral Acceleration	–
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	176.4
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	67.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	55.7
Wheelbase (in)	100.8
Front Track (in)	57.5
Rear Track (in)	57.5
Ground Clearance (in)	–
Curb Weight (lbs)	2850
GVWR (lbs)	–
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	90
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	13.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	33.5 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	None
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	AM/FM/CD
Speaker Count	6
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 yr / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 yr / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	8 yr / unlimited
Roadside Assistance	4 yr / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	–
Transmission Supplier	Aisin-Warner
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

## Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2001-2004 Volvo S40 is recognized in the used market as an accessible entry point into European luxury, though it requires diligent maintenance to remain reliable. Common areas of concern for prospective buyers include the electronic throttle module (ETM), cooling system components, and suspension bushings, which often show wear after high mileage. While the naturally aspirated 1.9L engine is generally robust, the 5-speed automatic transmission benefits significantly from periodic fluid changes to prevent shifting irregularities. Today, the S40 appeals to enthusiasts looking for a compact, safe, and understated daily driver, provided they are prepared for the higher cost of parts compared to domestic or Japanese compacts of the same vintage.