1989 Ford Probe vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Probe, 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Probe | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Probe | 260 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 219 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |