1980 Volvo 260 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
