1980 Volvo 66 vs. 1997 Volvo V40
To start off, 1997 Volvo V40 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo V40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 66.
Because 1980 Volvo 66 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 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo V40, 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, 1997 Volvo V40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 66 | 1997 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 66 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1287 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
