1977 Volvo 260 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40, 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volvo 260 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2662 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 | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| 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 | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
