1971 Toyota Century vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Toyota Century would be higher. At 2,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1971 Toyota Century. (128 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Toyota Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Toyota Century weights approximately 242 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40.
Because 1971 Toyota Century 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 Toyota Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Toyota Century. (236 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Toyota Century. 2006 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1971 Toyota Century has manual transmission. 1971 Toyota Century will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Toyota Century | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Century | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2981 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
