1975 Volvo 240 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 201 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Volvo 240 | 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 240 | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4426 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1703 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2604 mm |
