1997 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC70 is newer by 8 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo XC70 (206 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 10 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.
Because 2005 Volvo XC70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC70 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2005 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1400 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
