Sweden vs Sweden — 1981 vs 1985
| 240 Turbo Wagon | 240 GLT Estate | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 155 hp | 114 hp |
| Torque | — | 136 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,316 cc | 2,316 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 12.0 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 106 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,020 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,640 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 4,790 mm | 4,790 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $16,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $22,000 | $22,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 4/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 Volvo 240 Turbo Wagon brings more power to the table, and the 1985 Volvo 240 GLT Estate answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Volvo 240. The 1981 and 1985 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. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.