1985 Volvo 780 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 780 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 780 (145 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 780 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volvo 780 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Volvo 780 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 1985 Volvo 780. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40, 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, 1985 Volvo 780 (236 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 780 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 1985 Volvo 780 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Volvo 780 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volvo 780 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 780 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
