1996 Opel Vectra vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra is newer by 15 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra.
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, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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, 1996 Opel Vectra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Vectra | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Vectra | 240 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |