1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2002 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2002 Honda S-MX is newer by 23 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 17 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2002 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda S-MX. 2002 Honda S-MX 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. 2002 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2002 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Volvo | Honda |
| Model | 260 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
