1971 Ford Zephyr 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 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1971 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Zephyr 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 Ford Zephyr. 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Zephyr | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
