2003 Volvo V50 vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1971 Volvo 140. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 140 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2442 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
