1983 Volvo 740 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 103 kg more than 1983 Volvo 740.
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, 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 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 740. (190 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 740. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1983 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1983 Volvo 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volvo 740 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
