1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 64 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
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 Jetta, 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 Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 260 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2651 mm |
