2000 Volvo S40 vs. 1980 Volvo 244
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S40 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 244. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volvo S40 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1980 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 244 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 1980 Volvo 244. 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 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 244. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Volvo S40 | 1980 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 244 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1946 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
