1997 Ford Contour vs. 1969 Volvo 164
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 164. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 30 kg more than 1969 Volvo 164. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volvo 164 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 1969 Volvo 164. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 164. (210 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1969 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | 164 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
