1956 Fiat 1400 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Fiat 1400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Fiat 1400 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1956 Fiat 1400. (38 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1956 Fiat 1400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1956 Fiat 1400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Fiat 1400 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 1956 Fiat 1400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (220 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Fiat 1400. (134 Nm). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Fiat 1400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Fiat 1400 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 1400 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1900 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
