1975 Volvo 260 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 134 kg more than 1975 Volvo 260.
Because 1975 Volvo 260 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Volvo 260 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
