1954 Ford Popular vs. 2004 Volvo S40

To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Popular would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1954 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1954 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1954 Ford Popular 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 1954 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Ford Popular. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1954 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1954 Ford Popular will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1954 Ford Popular 2004 Volvo S40
Make Ford Volvo
Model Popular S40
Year Released 1954 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1172 cc 2401 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 26 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 63 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 735 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 3880 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1440 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2720 mm