2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 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 131 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 433 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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.4 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
