2006 Ford E-150 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Ford E-150 is newer by 25 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-150 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-150 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-150 weights approximately 346 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 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, 2006 Ford E-150, 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, 2006 Ford E-150 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford E-150 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | E-150 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2060 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 60 L |
