1979 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Chevrolet Caprice.
Because 1979 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1979 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1979 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chevrolet Caprice | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Caprice | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1460 mm |
