2009 Volvo V50 vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 245. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo V50 weights approximately 204 kg more than 1974 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 245 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 1974 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 245. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo V50 | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1598 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
