Indeed, the wire colors are irrelevant.
Many smaller motors, though, can be wired for either 120 or 230v depending on how the windings are connected in the junction box terminal, usually accessible under a small cover with a couple screws.
The data plate will generally indicate this, though, so if it just says 230v it is probably 230v only.
Perhaps you could post a photo of the data plate and a photo of the motor itself so we could advise further?