1981 Volvo 240 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 16 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 363 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.
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, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (171 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
