2008 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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, 2008 Audi A4 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2008 Audi A4.
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, 2008 Audi A4, 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, 2008 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 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 | 1160 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
