1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 27 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 228 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 2008 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
