2003 Volvo V50 vs. 1988 Ford Falcon
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Ford Falcon. (161 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Falcon weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 1988 Ford Falcon 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 1988 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Falcon. (311 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Falcon. 1988 Ford Falcon has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 1988 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Volvo | Ford |
| Model | V50 | Falcon |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 3949 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
