1981 Vauxhall Chevette vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 596 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 Vauxhall Chevette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Vauxhall Chevette | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Vauxhall | Volvo |
Model | Chevette | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1256 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 89 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1451 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |