1996 Volvo 850 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 850 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 850 | 240 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2461 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1340 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 |