2002 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe (139 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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 Hyundai Santa Fe (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Santa Fe | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
