1969 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 2,434 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (220 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider. (170 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 220 Nm |
| 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 | 1020 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
