1994 Volvo 850 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (112 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 850 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 1983 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volvo 850 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
