2009 Volvo S40 vs. 1979 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 249 kg more than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda Cosmo 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 1979 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo S40 | 1979 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S40 | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
