1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 28 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 830 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 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260. 2008 Volvo XC90 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. 2008 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
