1984 Oldsmobile Omega vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1986 Volvo 242 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Oldsmobile Omega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Oldsmobile Omega would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Oldsmobile Omega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1984 Oldsmobile Omega. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1984 Oldsmobile Omega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1984 Oldsmobile Omega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Oldsmobile Omega, 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, 1984 Oldsmobile Omega (183 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1984 Oldsmobile Omega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Oldsmobile Omega | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Omega | 242 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
