1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,524 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 799 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1959 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1959 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | 2CV | S40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 68 L |
