1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 22 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (242 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 225 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, 2003 Volvo C70, 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 240 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 240 | C70 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2319 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |