1976 Volvo 66 vs. 2000 Volvo S40
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,946 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S40 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 66.
Because 1976 Volvo 66 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 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 66 | 2000 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 66 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1720 mm |
