1986 Volvo 242 vs. 2000 Volvo S60
To start off, 2000 Volvo S60 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 2,433 cc (5 cylinders), 2000 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volvo S60 (137 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volvo S60 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. 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, 2000 Volvo S60, 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, 2000 Volvo S60 (285 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2000 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volvo 242 | 2000 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 242 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2433 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
