1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 88 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, 2006 Volvo S40, 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
