1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 1978 Volvo 66 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,108 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 66 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 66 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volvo |
| Model | Sprite | 66 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1390 mm |
