1989 Volvo 740 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1989 Volvo 740 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 2,315 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 740 (155 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 740 weights approximately 82 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo 740 (203 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm). This means 1989 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 740 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 106 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1372 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2660 mm |
