2002 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Ford Escort 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Escort (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 248 kg more than 2002 Ford Escort.
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 Ford Escort, 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 Ford Escort (178 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm). This means 2002 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Escort | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
