2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Volvo 240 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 1975 Volvo 240. 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 (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
