1997 Ford Contour vs. 1968 Volvo 145
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 100 kg more than 1968 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volvo 145 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 1968 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 145. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1968 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | 145 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
