1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 25 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 26 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 260 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2810 mm |
