1974 Fiat 124 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (217 HP) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 548 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 124 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 62 L |
