1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2011 Honda Accord
To start off, 2011 Honda Accord is newer by 32 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, 2011 Honda Accord (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Accord weights approximately 94 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 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, 2011 Honda Accord, 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, 2011 Honda Accord (219 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2011 Honda Accord 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. 2011 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2011 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Volvo | Honda |
| Model | 260 | Accord |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1433 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2741 mm |
