2003 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 20 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Oldsmobile Alero | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Alero | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
