1987 Volvo 740 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1987 Volvo 740.
Because 1987 Volvo 740 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 1987 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 740. (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volvo 740 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
