1978 Volvo 260 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 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 8 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 49 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
