1980 Volvo 240 vs. 2010 Opel Astra
To start off, 2010 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 240. (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 240 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2010 Opel Astra.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Opel Astra, 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, 2010 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 240. (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2010 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 240 | 2010 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 240 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
