1990 Dodge Caravan vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1990 Dodge Caravan is newer by 9 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1990 Dodge Caravan. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1990 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 115 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240.
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, 1990 Dodge Caravan, 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, 1990 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Dodge Caravan | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Dodge | Volvo |
Model | Caravan | 240 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |