1973 Nissan Skyline vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Skyline 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 1973 Nissan Skyline. 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Skyline | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Skyline | S40 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
