1972 Toyota Publica vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1972 Toyota Publica. (38 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Toyota Publica 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 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Toyota Publica. (62 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Toyota Publica | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Publica | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3680 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2650 mm |
