1971 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 471 kg more than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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 (165 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider. (121 Nm). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1287 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
