2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1985 Volvo 780
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 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 84 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 780. (127 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 780. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volvo 780 weights approximately 504 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Volvo 780. 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 780. (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 780. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1985 Volvo 780 has manual transmission. 1985 Volvo 780 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1985 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | 780 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
