1978 Volvo 264 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 86 kg more than 1978 Volvo 264. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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 S60 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 264 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 264 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1456 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
