1978 Volvo 260 vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 1998 Acura EL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 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 19 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 271 kg more than 1998 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 260 | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Volvo | Acura |
| Model | 260 | EL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2619 mm |
