1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1981 Volvo 240 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 4,228 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (110 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1972 AMC Javelin.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (264 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 1972 AMC Javelin has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Javelin will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Javelin | 240 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4228 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1342 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
