1988 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 85 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 Suzuki Samurai 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 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Samurai | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volvo |
| Model | Samurai | 260 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2660 mm |
