1999 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1999 Ford Focus.
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, 1999 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Focus | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 850 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
