1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2005 Volvo V70
To start off, 2005 Volvo V70 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V70 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V70 weights approximately 277 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V70, 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, 2005 Volvo V70 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2005 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
