1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2009 Ford Galaxy
To start off, 2009 Ford Galaxy is newer by 28 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 2,293 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Galaxy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Galaxy (143 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Galaxy should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 435 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, 2009 Ford Galaxy, 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, 2009 Ford Galaxy (203 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Galaxy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2009 Ford Galaxy 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. 2009 Ford Galaxy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 2009 Ford Galaxy | |
| Make | Volvo | Ford |
| Model | 240 | Galaxy |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
