2005 Scion xA vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Scion xA 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 106 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 Scion xA.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA, 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Scion xA. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Scion xA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Scion xA | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Scion | Volvo |
| Model | xA | 240 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2660 mm |
