1981 Volvo 240 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 460 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 1989 Volvo 460 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
