1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1968 Abarth 1300. (124 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1968 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 795 kg more than 1968 Abarth 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Abarth 1300 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 1968 Abarth 1300. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Abarth 1300. (131 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Abarth 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Abarth 1300 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Abarth | Volvo |
| Model | 1300 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 68 L |
