1978 Nissan Laurel vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1978 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Laurel 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 1978 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Laurel | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Laurel | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
