2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1986 Volvo 740
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 740 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 61 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 740. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 128 kg more than 1986 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 740 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 1986 Volvo 740. 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 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 740. (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1986 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
