1985 Volvo 780 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 780 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 780 (145 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 780 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1985 Volvo 780.
Because 1985 Volvo 780 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 1985 Volvo 780. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 780. (236 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 780. 1985 Volvo 780 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Volvo 780 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volvo 780 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 780 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
