2009 Ford Focus vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 265 kg more than 1971 Volvo 140. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 1971 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 140 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
