1984 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta 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 113 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2009 Volvo S40 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (102 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta 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:
| 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
