1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Audi S3
To start off, 2010 Audi S3 is newer by 31 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, 2010 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Audi S3 weights approximately 105 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 2010 Audi S3 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, 2010 Audi S3 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, 2010 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2010 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | 260 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
