2000 Volvo S40 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S40 (190 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (149 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2000 Volvo S40.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 1978 Volvo 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (298 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Volvo S40 | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
