1981 Ford Falcon vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Falcon | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Falcon | V50 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 207 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2670 mm |