2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo C70 (236 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 587 kg more than 1997 Volvo C70.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70, 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo C70. (330 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo C70. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo C70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | C70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 68 L |
