1986 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 469 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | S40 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
