1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 25 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (193 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 215 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, 2005 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (285 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260. 2005 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1980 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1980 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
