1993 Rover 800 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1993 Rover 800 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 2,675 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Rover 800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Rover 800 (167 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Rover 800 weights approximately 174 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. 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, 1993 Rover 800, 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 Rover 800 (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Rover 800 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 800 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2675 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
