2002 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus 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. Both 2002 Ford Focus and 1981 Volvo 240 are equipped with a 1,986 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 Ford Focus.
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 Focus, 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 Focus (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Focus | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
