1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (134 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1460 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 2848 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3210 mm |
