1997 Volvo S70 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 692 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S70 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volvo | Ford |
| Model | S70 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
