2006 Volvo S60 vs. 1980 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 240. (152 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 94 kg more than 1980 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 240. (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S60 | 1980 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S60 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1534 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
