1963 Austin Princess vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1963 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1963 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Austin Princess weights approximately 729 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
Because 1963 Austin Princess 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 1963 Austin Princess. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Austin Princess. (251 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Austin Princess.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Austin Princess | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Princess | S40 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
