1970 BMW 2002 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1970 BMW 2002. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1970 BMW 2002. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 349 kg more than 1970 BMW 2002. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 BMW 2002 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 1970 BMW 2002. 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 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 BMW 2002. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 BMW 2002.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 BMW 2002 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 2002 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 60 L |
