2004 Volvo S60 vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 258 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S60 | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S60 | 244 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
