1961 Volvo P 1800 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1961 Volvo P 1800. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1961 Volvo P 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Volvo P 1800 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 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volvo P 1800. (147 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volvo P 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Volvo P 1800 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | P 1800 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
