1999 Rover 200 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1999 Rover 200 is newer by 18 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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Rover 200 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Rover 200 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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, 1999 Rover 200, 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, both vehicles can yield 127 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Rover 200 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 200 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2660 mm |
