1997 Ford Contour vs. 1993 Volvo 960
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 960 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 13 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 960 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 1993 Volvo 960 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 1993 Volvo 960. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1993 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | 960 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
