1987 Citroen AX vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1987 Citroen AX is newer by 6 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Citroen AX (85 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Citroen AX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 648 kg more than 1987 Citroen AX.
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, 1987 Citroen AX, 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 (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | AX | 240 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 722 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2660 mm |
