1983 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Because 1983 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 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider (183 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
