1982 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 651 kg more than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1570 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1651 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2650 mm |
