1997 Audi A6 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1997 Audi A6 is newer by 16 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A6 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A6 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Audi A6, 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, 1997 Audi A6 (310 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A6 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
