1974 Volvo 245 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 245. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1974 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 245 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 1974 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50, 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 V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 245. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 245 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 245 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1394 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
