1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2010 Volvo XC60
To start off, 2010 Volvo XC60 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volvo XC60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo XC60 (281 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo XC60 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo XC60 weights approximately 523 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 2010 Volvo XC60 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo XC60 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, 2010 Volvo XC60 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo XC60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2010 Volvo XC60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 260 | XC60 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1712 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2774 mm |
