2009 Mercury Sable vs. 1978 Volvo 164
To start off, 2009 Mercury Sable 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Sable (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 164. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Sable 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 Mercury Sable, 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 Mercury Sable (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercury Sable | 1978 Volvo 164 | |
Make | Mercury | Volvo |
Model | Sable | 164 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5610 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3350 mm |