1968 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Volvo S40

To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (55 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (82 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1968 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1968 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Ford Escort 2009 Volvo S40
Make Ford Volvo
Model Escort S40
Year Released 1968 2009
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1117 cc 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 55 HP 166 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 82 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 74 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 65 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.3:1
Top Speed 144 km/hour 215 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1460 mm