1988 Chevrolet Blazer vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1988 Chevrolet Blazer is newer by 7 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 62 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Blazer. (91 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Blazer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Blazer weights approximately 30 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Blazer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Blazer 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Blazer. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Blazer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Chevrolet Blazer | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Blazer | 260 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2471 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2660 mm |
