1998 Volvo S70 vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 1998 Volvo S70 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S70 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S70 | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S70 | 244 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
