2006 Volvo V50 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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 Volvo V50, 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 V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2006 Volvo V50 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. 2006 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Volvo V50 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | V50 | 240 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2345 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |