1947 Austin 16 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1947 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1947 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1947 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1947 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1947 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1947 Austin 16 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
Because 1947 Austin 16 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1947 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1947 Austin 16. (146 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1947 Austin 16.
Compare all specifications:
| 1947 Austin 16 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 16 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1947 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
