1988 Volvo 240 vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 240.
Because 1988 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 1988 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte, 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, 2012 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 240. 2012 Kia Forte has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 240 | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Volvo | Kia |
| Model | 240 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2649 mm |
