1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 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, 2009 Volvo C30, 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 Volvo C30 (240 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2009 Volvo C30 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 Volvo C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 240 | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 240 | C30 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |