2004 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 23 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, 2004 Audi A4 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
Because 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
