1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 30 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 189 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 260 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1559 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2852 mm |
