1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 169 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
