2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 24 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 980 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | R | 240 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2660 mm |
