1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2002 Volvo XC90

To start off, 2002 Volvo XC90 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo XC90 (268 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 792 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 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, 2002 Volvo XC90 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2002 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Volvo 260 2002 Volvo XC90
Make Volvo Volvo
Model 260 XC90
Year Released 1979 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2664 cc 2922 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 146 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 218 Nm 380 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 8.5:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Vehicle Weight 1350 kg 2142 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1790 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2720 mm