1971 Volkswagen 411 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 Volkswagen 411. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 411 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 411. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 411. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 339 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 411. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 411 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 Volkswagen 411. 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 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 411. (135 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 411.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 411 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | 411 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1679 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
