1987 Ford Taurus vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1987 Ford Taurus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,511 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 240 (112 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 100 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240.
Because 1983 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 1983 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus, 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, 1983 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taurus | 240 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2511 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |
