1981 Bitter SC vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Bitter SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Bitter SC would be higher. At 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Bitter SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Bitter SC (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Bitter SC should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 49 kg more than 1981 Bitter SC.
Because 1981 Bitter SC 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 1981 Bitter SC. 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, 1981 Bitter SC (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Bitter SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Bitter SC | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Bitter | Volvo |
| Model | SC | S40 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2800 mm |
