1980 Volvo 244 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 244 (136 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 323 kg more than 1980 Volvo 244.
Because 1980 Volvo 244 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 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 244. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 244 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 244 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
