1998 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2002 Volvo S80 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S80 (208 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo S80 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. 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, 2002 Volvo S80 (381 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2002 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2002 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
