2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Volvo S70
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 S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70.
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 S70, 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 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 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 S70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 68 L |
