2008 Volvo V70 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 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 Volvo V70 (200 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 192 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volvo V70, 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 V70 (240 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo V70 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V70 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
