1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 260 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
Model | 260 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2537 mm |