1983 Ford Fairlane vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (131 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 192 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 1983 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fairlane. 1983 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fairlane | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Fairlane | V50 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2760 mm |
