2008 Volvo S40 vs. 1970 Volvo 145
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1970 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo 145 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 1970 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S40 | 1970 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 145 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
