1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2000 Saturn SC
To start off, 2000 Saturn SC is newer by 21 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 24 more horse power than 2000 Saturn SC. (122 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2000 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2000 Saturn SC. 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, 2000 Saturn SC, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Saturn SC. (165 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Saturn SC. 2000 Saturn SC 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. 2000 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2000 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Volvo | Saturn |
| Model | 260 | SC |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2610 mm |
