1994 Volvo 850 vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 69 kg more than 1994 Volvo 850.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850, 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volvo 850 | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | 244 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
