1970 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 512 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen 1600 has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | 1600 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.7:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1522 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
