1969 Fiat 124 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 124 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 106 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 124. (60 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 124.
Because 1969 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 124. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1969 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1969 Fiat 124 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:
| 1969 Fiat 124 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 124 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1460 mm |
