1960 Fiat 500 vs. 2005 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Volvo V40 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V40 (108 HP) has 90 more horse power than 1960 Fiat 500. (18 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1960 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V40 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1960 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40, 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, 2005 Volvo V40 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fiat 500. (30 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Fiat 500 | 2005 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 500 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 500 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1960 mm | 2570 mm |
