1961 Jensen 541 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1961 Jensen 541. (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1961 Jensen 541. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Jensen 541 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 1961 Jensen 541 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 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Jensen 541. (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Jensen 541.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Jensen 541 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Jensen | Volvo |
| Model | 541 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
