1973 Volvo 1800 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1978 Volvo 260 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1973 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 1800. (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volvo 1800 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 1800 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
