1972 Cadillac Eldorado 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 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 8,190 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Cadillac Eldorado (223 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 930 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 1972 Cadillac Eldorado (521 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Cadillac Eldorado | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | Eldorado | 240 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8190 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 521 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 109.2 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 109.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2660 mm |
