1981 Volvo 240 vs. 1998 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1998 Toyota Corolla is newer by 17 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 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (111 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Corolla. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 Toyota Corolla. 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, 1998 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota Corolla. 1998 Toyota Corolla 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. 1998 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 1998 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Volvo | Toyota |
| Model | 240 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
