1977 Datsun 280 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1981 Volvo 240 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Datsun 280 (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Datsun 280 weights approximately 85 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.
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, 1977 Datsun 280 (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |
