1995 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Volvo 260

To start off, 1995 Ford Escort is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1995 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1995 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1995 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1995 Ford Escort 1979 Volvo 260
Make Ford Volvo
Model Escort 260
Year Released 1995 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2664 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 70 HP 146 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 132 Nm 218 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1185 kg 1350 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4890 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1440 mm