1981 Ford Fairlane vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1981 Ford Fairlane 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 1981 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1981 Ford Fairlane (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V50. (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fairlane | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Fairlane | V50 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2345 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
