Volvo 240

vs

Volvo 240

Sweden vs Sweden — 1981 vs 1981

Volvo 240 (1981)
Volvo 240 (1981)
Specifications
240 Turbo Wagon240 DL Sedan
Horsepower155 hp114 hp
Torque136 lb-ft
Engine Size2,316 cc2,316 cc
0-60 mph11.5 sec
Top Speed109 mph
¼ Mile18.2 sec
Weight2,910 lbs
Wheelbase2,640 mm2,640 mm
Length4,790 mm4,790 mm
Units Produced2,862,053
Original MSRP$14,895
Value (Excellent)$22,000$15,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity10/102/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon brings more power to the table, and the 1981 Volvo 240 DL Sedan answers with better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Few model names carry as much weight as the Volvo 240. The 1981 and 1981 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon holds a clear advantage in raw power with 155 hp compared to 114 hp, a 41-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 240 uses a Inline-4 displacing 2,316 cc, while the Volvo 240 relies on a Inline-4 OHC with 2,316 cc. On the collector market, the 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon commands a significant premium over the 1981 Volvo 240 DL Sedan, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.