1966 NSU 1000 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (133 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1966 NSU 1000. (53 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1966 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 890 kg more than 1966 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 NSU 1000 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 1966 NSU 1000. 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 NSU 1000. (80 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 NSU 1000 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | NSU | Volvo |
| Model | 1000 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1084 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 62 L |
