1968 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1968 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. 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 (240 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 500 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 500 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 60 L |
