1980 Holden Commodore vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Holden Commodore 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 1980 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Holden Commodore | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Commodore | S40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
