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 1,950 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 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 285 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 (240 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 5. (221 Nm). 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 | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
