1979 Volvo 260 vs. 1991 Volvo 440
To start off, 1991 Volvo 440 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1991 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 440, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 1991 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2780 mm |
