1974 Toyota Celica vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (114 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1974 Toyota Celica. (85 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1974 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Toyota Celica. (142 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Toyota Celica | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Celica | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2560 mm |
