1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 32 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, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 197 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Volvo | Lexus |
| Model | 260 | IS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2731 mm |
