2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 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 154 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 524 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, 1999 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S80 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 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
