2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1966 ZAZ 966
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1966 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1966 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 714 kg more than 1966 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 ZAZ 966 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 1966 ZAZ 966. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1966 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Volvo | ZAZ |
| Model | S40 | 966 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 887 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 744 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2170 mm |
