2004 Subaru Outback vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 200 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 2004 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Subaru Outback | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Outback | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
