1954 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1954 Porsche 356. (110 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1954 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1954 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. 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 (240 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Porsche 356. (133 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Porsche 356 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 60 L |
