1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 22 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 18 more horse power than 2002 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2002 Saturn L. 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, 2002 Saturn L, 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Volvo | Saturn |
| Model | 260 | L |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
