2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 339 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volvo |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
