1989 Volvo 440 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 260 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 1975 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 440 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 440 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2660 mm |
