1987 Volvo 240 vs. 2009 Honda Civic

To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volvo 240 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2009 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 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 1987 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic, 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, 1987 Volvo 240 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Civic. (130 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1987 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Civic. 2009 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1987 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1987 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Volvo 240 2009 Honda Civic
Make Volvo Honda
Model 240 Civic
Year Released 1987 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1986 cc 1395 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 96 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 157 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.8 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93 mm 79 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1290 kg 1167 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2580 mm