1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 431 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, 2012 Volvo XC70, 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 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2815 mm |
