1984 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 618 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Vauxhall Astra | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
