2000 Ford Contour vs. 1979 Volvo 265
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Contour (201 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Contour weights approximately 18 kg more than 1979 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 265 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 1979 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Ford Contour (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Contour | 1979 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Contour | 265 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
