2008 Honda Civic vs. 1978 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 30 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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1978 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Civic | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
