1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Volvo V70
To start off, 2004 Volvo V70 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,316 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V70 (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V70 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. 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, 2004 Volvo V70 (231 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | V70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1582 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
