1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2001 Volvo C70
To start off, 2001 Volvo C70 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo C70 (161 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2001 Volvo C70.
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 Volvo C70, 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 Volvo C70 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2001 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
