2003 Volvo S40 vs. 1980 Volvo 245
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 245. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 111 kg more than 1980 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 245 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 245. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 1980 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| 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 | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 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 | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
