1986 Citroen BX vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1986 Citroen BX is newer by 5 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Citroen BX. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1986 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 Citroen BX, 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen BX. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | BX | 240 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
