1970 Reliant Bug vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Bug. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Bug would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Bug. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Bug. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 1017 kg more than 1970 Reliant Bug. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Reliant Bug 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 Reliant Bug. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Reliant Bug. (52 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Reliant Bug. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1970 Reliant Bug has manual transmission. 1970 Reliant Bug will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Reliant Bug | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Bug | S40 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 701 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 121 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 408 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2800 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1960 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23 L | 62 L |
