1968 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Alfa Romeo GT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Alfa Romeo GT would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1968 Alfa Romeo GT. (87 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1968 Alfa Romeo GT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S40 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1968 Alfa Romeo GT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Alfa Romeo GT 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 Alfa Romeo GT. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Alfa Romeo GT. (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Alfa Romeo GT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Alfa Romeo GT | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | GT | S40 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 68 L |
