1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 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 3 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 19 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, 2007 Volvo S40, 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
