1974 Volvo 244 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Volvo 244 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 244 | S40 |
Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2125 cc | 2523 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |