1976 Volvo 260 vs. 1994 Volvo 480
To start off, 1994 Volvo 480 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volvo 260 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 480. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 260 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1994 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 480, 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, 1976 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 260 | 1994 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
