1972 Volvo 145 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 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 129 kg more than 1972 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 145 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 Volvo 145. 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 (320 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo 145 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 145 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1419 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
