1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix is newer by 30 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix 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, 2011 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2011 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2011 Toyota Matrix 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. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 240 | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Volvo | Toyota |
| Model | 240 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
