1972 Volvo 164 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 164 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 124 kg more than 1972 Volvo 164.
Because 1972 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 1972 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50, 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 164. (241 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo 164 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 164 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2978 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
