1999 Subaru Legacy vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1999 Subaru Legacy 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 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Subaru Legacy (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Subaru Legacy. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Subaru Legacy.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Subaru Legacy | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Legacy | 240 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
