2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 397 kg more than 2009 Volvo S80.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volvo S80. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S80. (301 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S80. 2009 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1553 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
