2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Volvo C70. (190 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 604 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo C70. 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo C70. (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | C70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 68 L |
