1983 Ford Tempo vs. 1966 Volvo 144
To start off, 1983 Ford Tempo is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volvo 144 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volvo 144 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volvo 144 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volvo 144 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 1966 Volvo 144. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Tempo, 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, 1966 Volvo 144 (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1966 Volvo 144 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Tempo | 1966 Volvo 144 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Tempo | 144 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2620 mm |
