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 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus.
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, 1981 Volvo 240 (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
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 | 1388 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
