2001 Ford F-250 vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2001 Ford F-250 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 5,407 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford F-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford F-250 (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford F-250 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford F-250 weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford F-250 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Volvo 242. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford F-250 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, 2001 Ford F-250 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Ford F-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242. 2001 Ford F-250 has automatic transmission and 1986 Volvo 242 has manual transmission. 1986 Volvo 242 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford F-250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford F-250 | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | F-250 | 242 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5407 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2350 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5760 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2660 mm |
