1997 Volvo S70 vs. 1990 Volvo 240
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 240 would be higher. Both 1997 Volvo S70 and 1990 Volvo 240 are equipped with a 1,984 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 240.
Because 1990 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 1990 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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 Volvo S70 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 1990 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S70 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
