1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2011 Honda Accord
To start off, 2011 Honda Accord is newer by 30 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, 2011 Honda Accord (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Accord weights approximately 89 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, 2011 Honda Accord, 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Accord. (218 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2011 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Volvo | Honda |
| Model | 260 | Accord |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1847 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2799 mm |
