1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40.
Because 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass (380 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40. 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2006 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2006 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Cutlass | S40 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2570 mm |
