1978 Opel Manta vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Manta would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Opel Manta. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo V50 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1978 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Manta 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 Opel Manta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50, 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 V50 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Manta. (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Manta | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Manta | V50 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
