2009 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1978 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 31 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 6,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (431 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet Corvette (586 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Corvette | 1978 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Corvette | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6162 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 431 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 586 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
