2006 Renault Vel Satis vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Renault Vel Satis 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 425 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 Renault Vel Satis, 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 Renault Vel Satis (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Vel Satis | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Vel Satis | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2660 mm |
