1991 Citroen ZX vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1991 Citroen ZX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1991 Citroen ZX. (89 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1991 Citroen ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1991 Citroen ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Citroen ZX, 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Citroen ZX. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Citroen ZX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Citroen ZX | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | ZX | 242 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1579 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2660 mm |
