1949 Austin 16 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1949 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1949 Austin 16. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 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 1949 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin 16. (147 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Austin 16.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Austin 16 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | 16 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 121 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
