1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4650 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 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 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (139 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
