1976 Volvo 66 vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1986 Volvo 242 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 66.
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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 66 | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 66 | 242 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
