1989 Austin Maestro vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1989 Austin Maestro is newer by 8 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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1989 Austin Maestro.
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, 1989 Austin Maestro, 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 (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Austin Maestro | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Maestro | 240 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
