1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 23 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 245 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, 1998 Volvo S80, 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 S80 (260 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
