1993 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1993 Ford Focus is newer by 15 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, 1993 Ford Focus (227 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Ford Focus should accelerate faster 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, 1993 Ford Focus, 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, 1993 Ford Focus (305 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Focus | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 260 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
