1997 Rover 800 vs. 1978 Volvo 164
To start off, 1997 Rover 800 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 800 (173 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 164. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 164.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800, 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 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Rover 800 | 1978 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 800 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 3350 mm |
