2009 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 28 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 6,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1319 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 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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, 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2009 Cadillac Escalade has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac Escalade | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | Escalade | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6161 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 565 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2609 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2660 mm |
