1991 Renault 4 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1991 Renault 4 is newer by 10 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1991 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1991 Renault 4. 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, 1991 Renault 4, 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 (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Renault 4 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 4 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
