1980 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. 2005 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1980 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1980 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Vauxhall Astra | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
