1992 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1992 Ford Escort is newer by 11 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, 1992 Ford Escort (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1992 Ford Escort.
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, 1992 Ford Escort, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Escort. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Escort | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 240 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
