1974 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1998 Volvo S40
To start off, 1998 Volvo S40 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S40 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S40 weights approximately 733 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Volvo S40 (299 Nm) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Passat | 1998 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
