2003 Volvo S40 vs. 1971 Volvo P 1800
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Volvo P 1800. (116 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 331 kg more than 1971 Volvo P 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo P 1800 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 1971 Volvo P 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1971 Volvo P 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo P 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 1971 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1451 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
