1979 Volvo 260 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 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 8 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260.
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, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 1999 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| 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 | 146 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
