1985 Volvo 740 vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1985 Volvo 740.
Because 1985 Volvo 740 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 1985 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80, 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, 1985 Volvo 740 (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volvo 740 | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2800 mm |
