2009 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Volvo 164
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 164. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 164.
Because 1978 Volvo 164 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 1978 Volvo 164. 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 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1978 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3350 mm |
