1959 Austin-Healey 3000 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 would be higher. At 2,911 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 379 kg more than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000.
Because 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 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 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. (237 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 has manual transmission. 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volvo |
| Model | 3000 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2911 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1143 kg | 1522 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
