2007 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo 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 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (111 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 191 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Polo | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | 240 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
