2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 260 weights approximately 384 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
