Sweden vs Sweden — 1981 vs 1990
| 242 Turbo Group A Homologation | 940 SE Turbo Sedan | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 155 hp | 165 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 199 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,127 cc | 2,316 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.9 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.7 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 3,175 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm | 2,770 mm |
| Length | 4,790 mm | 4,840 mm |
| Original MSRP | $16,495 | $28,670 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $12,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1990 Volvo 940 SE Turbo Sedan answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation with the 1990 Volvo 940 SE Turbo Sedan highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation producing 155 hp and the 1990 Volvo 940 SE Turbo Sedan delivering 165 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 242 Turbo uses a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC displacing 2,127 cc, while the Volvo 940 relies on a Inline-4 OHC Turbocharged Intercooled with 2,316 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1990 Volvo 940 SE Turbo Sedan edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 8.9 seconds. The Volvo 242 Turbo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 243 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation commands a significant premium over the 1990 Volvo 940 SE Turbo Sedan, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Volvo 242 Turbo Group A Homologation rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.