1979 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2012 Opel Zafira is newer by 33 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, 2012 Opel Zafira (238 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Opel Zafira, 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, 2012 Opel Zafira (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volvo 260 | 2012 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 260 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2700 mm |
