1957 Aston Martin DB3 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Aston Martin DB3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Aston Martin DB3 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Aston Martin DB3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Aston Martin DB3 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Aston Martin DB3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 498 kg more than 1957 Aston Martin DB3.
Because 1957 Aston Martin DB3 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 1957 Aston Martin DB3. 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Aston Martin DB3. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Aston Martin DB3. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1957 Aston Martin DB3 has manual transmission. 1957 Aston Martin DB3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Aston Martin DB3 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volvo |
| Model | DB3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
