1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP) has 32 more horse power than 2011 Volvo S80. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 259 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, 2011 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (270 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm). This means 2011 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2011 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Volvo 260 | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 260 | S80 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 114 HP |
Torque | 218 Nm | 270 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1609 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1864 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1483 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2776 mm |