1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Subaru R-2 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | R-2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2560 mm |
