1949 MG TD vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1949 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 MG TD 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 MG TD. 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 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 MG TD | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | MG | Volvo |
| Model | TD | S40 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2560 mm |
