1983 Volvo 740 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 740 (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 740 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 740 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 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Volvo 740 (190 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volvo 740 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2560 mm |
