1966 Volvo 144 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volvo 144 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volvo 144 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volvo 144 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 361 kg more than 1966 Volvo 144.
Because 1966 Volvo 144 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 Volvo 144. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1966 Volvo 144 (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1966 Volvo 144 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Volvo 144 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 144 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1651 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
