1989 Citroen XM vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 150 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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, 1989 Citroen XM (225 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | XM | 260 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
