1981 Renault 5 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Renault 5.
Because 1981 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1981 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 5 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 5 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
