1978 Chevrolet Blazer vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Blazer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Blazer would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Blazer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Blazer. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Blazer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Blazer weights approximately 375 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Blazer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet Blazer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Blazer. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Blazer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Blazer | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Blazer | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2050 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
