1977 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2010 Volvo S40
To start off, 2010 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S40 weights approximately 404 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-4 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-4 | 2010 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-4 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1514 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
