2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 64 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2006 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2006 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S40 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
