1961 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 4,637 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 227 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 61 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.
Because 1961 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1961 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 1961 Chevrolet Corvette (407 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1961 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Corvette | S40 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4637 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
