1981 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. 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 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Mustang | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Mustang | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2720 mm |