1979 Renault 5 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 5 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Renault 5. (159 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1979 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 5. (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 5 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 5 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 68 L |
