1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (160 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Because 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (251 Nm). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Cutlass | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
