1998 Ford Contour vs. 1980 Volvo 245
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 245. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 71 kg more than 1980 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 245 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 1980 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1980 Volvo 245 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Contour | 245 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |