1955 Peugeot 203 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Peugeot 203. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Peugeot 203 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (133 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1955 Peugeot 203. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1955 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 586 kg more than 1955 Peugeot 203. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Peugeot 203 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 1955 Peugeot 203. 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Peugeot 203. (77 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Peugeot 203.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Peugeot 203 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volvo |
| Model | 203 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 133 HP |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
