2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 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 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Caterham | Volvo |
Model | 7 | 240 |
Year Released | 2004 | 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 | 251 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2660 mm |