1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima is newer by 29 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 142 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, 2010 Nissan Altima, 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 260 | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Volvo | Nissan |
Model | 260 | Altima |
Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2849 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2675 mm |