1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1999 Volvo S40
To start off, 1999 Volvo S40 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. Both 1980 Volkswagen Jetta and 1999 Volvo S40 are equipped with a 1,588 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S40 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1999 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 1999 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | S40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
