1978 Volvo 66 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 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 66. 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 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 2006 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Volvo 66 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 66 | S40 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 94 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1780 mm |