2001 Citroen C5 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 20 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C5 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C5 weights approximately 150 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 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, 2001 Citroen C5, 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, 2001 Citroen C5 (314 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C5 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | C5 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2177 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
