1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (179 HP) has 112 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 748 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Ballade | S60 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 179 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1533 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2720 mm |
