1997 Ford Contour vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 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 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 254 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Contour (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Contour | 480 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |