2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1980 Volvo 66
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 66.
Because 1980 Volvo 66 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 1980 Volvo 66. 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 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1980 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 66 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1550 mm |
