1981 Lincoln Continental vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2002 Volvo S80 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S80 (208 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 404 kg more than 2002 Volvo S80.
Because 1981 Lincoln Continental 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 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volvo S80 (381 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (313 Nm). This means 2002 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lincoln Continental | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Volvo |
| Model | Continental | S80 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 313 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5570 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2800 mm |
