1984 Toyota MR2 vs. 1999 Volvo S40
To start off, 1999 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1984 Toyota MR2. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S40 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1984 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Toyota MR2 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 1984 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Toyota MR2. (118 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Toyota MR2 | 1999 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | MR2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1453 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
