1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 37 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 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 272 kg more than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
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, 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 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Zephyr | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1522 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
