1973 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 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 190 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 998 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. 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 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Subaru R-2 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | R-2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2650 mm |
