1986 Volvo 242 vs. 1980 Volvo 244
To start off, 1986 Volvo 242 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 244 would be higher. Both 1986 Volvo 242 and 1980 Volvo 244 are equipped with a 1,986 cc engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 97 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1980 Volvo 244.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 157 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volvo 242 | 1980 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 242 | 244 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
