2004 Ford Focus vs. 1973 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 262 kg more than 1973 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 1800 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 1973 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 1973 Volvo 1800 (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1973 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
