1998 Ford Contour vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 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 8 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 119 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (263 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | 960 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| 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 | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
