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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 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. 1975 Volvo 240 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40.
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, 1975 Volvo 240 (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
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 | 1596 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 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 |
