2009 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus 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 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 151 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, 2009 Ford Focus, 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, 2009 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1451 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
