1971 Volvo 164 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 164. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 329 kg more than 1971 Volvo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 164 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 1971 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 164. (210 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volvo 164 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 164 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2978 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
