2007 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 26 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, 2007 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2007 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2007 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2007 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Elantra | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Elantra | 240 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 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 | 1195 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
