1983 Volvo 240 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 123 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volvo 240 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
