1981 Ferrari 308 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 242 kg more than 1981 Ferrari 308.
Because 1981 Ferrari 308 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 Ferrari 308. 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ferrari 308. (260 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 308. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1981 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 308 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volvo |
| Model | 308 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1522 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |
