2008 Volvo S80 vs. 1990 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 242 kg more than 1990 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S80 | 1990 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2434 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1532 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
