1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 21 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 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 240 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 260 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
