1998 Volvo S80 vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80.
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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volvo | Ford |
| Model | S80 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
