2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S80. (268 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S80 weights approximately 474 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80, 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S80. (380 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
