2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (151 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 1981 Nissan Stanza 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. 1981 Nissan Stanza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Volvo | Nissan |
| Model | S40 | Stanza |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
