1994 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 1994 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volvo 260 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1994 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 260 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1994 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Ford Escort, 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, 1976 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1976 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Escort | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 260 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
