2008 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban 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 5,328 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban (321 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban 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, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Suburban | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Suburban | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5328 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5660 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2660 mm |
