1974 Rover 3.5 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 213 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Rover 3.5. (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Rover 3.5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Rover 3.5 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 3.5 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2650 mm |
