1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 2006 Opel Astra, 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 (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra 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. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 240 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
