1975 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | S40 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
