1989 Chevrolet APV vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet APV 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet APV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet APV (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet APV should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet APV weights approximately 290 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Chevrolet APV, 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, 1989 Chevrolet APV (237 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet APV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 1989 Chevrolet APV has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Chevrolet APV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chevrolet APV | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | APV | 240 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
