2005 Ford Focus vs. 1988 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 162 kg more than 1988 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volvo 240 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 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1988 Volvo 240 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1988 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 240 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 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 | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
