1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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 Volvo S40, 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 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
