1953 Austin A 70 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 70. (66 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1953 Austin A 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Austin A 70 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 1953 Austin A 70. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 70. (157 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin A 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin A 70 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 70 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 62 L |
