2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1971 Volvo 145
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 145. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1971 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Volvo 145. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 will offer significantly more control. 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 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1971 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 145 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2523 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
