1986 Austin Maestro vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 1986 Austin Maestro is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volvo 260 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1986 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1986 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 260 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1986 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Austin Maestro, 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, 1976 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Austin Maestro | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Maestro | 260 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
