1976 Ford Cortina vs. 2008 Volvo S40

To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina.

Because 1976 Ford Cortina 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 1976 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (122 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Cortina 2008 Volvo S40
Make Ford Volvo
Model Cortina S40
Year Released 1976 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1592 cc 1948 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 0 HP
Torque 122 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1035 kg 1255 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 60 L