1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 31 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 744 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 2011 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
