1978 Volvo 260 vs. 2000 Volvo S40
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (190 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2000 Volvo S40.
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, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (298 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 260 | 2000 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 89.9 mm |
| 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 | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
