2007 Volvo V50 vs. 1978 Volvo 240
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
Because 2007 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo V50 | 1978 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
