1960 Fairthorpe Electron vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fairthorpe Electron would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. (42 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron.
Because 1960 Fairthorpe Electron 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 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. (66 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fairthorpe Electron. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1960 Fairthorpe Electron has manual transmission. 1960 Fairthorpe Electron will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Fairthorpe Electron | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Volvo |
| Model | Electron | S40 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 42 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 63 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
