1984 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
