2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 22 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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 660 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 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Explorer | 240 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |