1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 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 465 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 1972 Fiat 124. 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 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 124 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |
