1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 204 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 Nissan Altima, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Nissan Altima. (219 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Volvo | Nissan |
| Model | 260 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2776 mm |
