1978 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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 42 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 36 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 260 | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
