1995 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1978 Volvo 260

To start off, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 17 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, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 331 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, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire, 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. (176 Nm). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Pontiac Sunfire. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 1995 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1995 Pontiac Sunfire 1978 Volvo 260
Make Pontiac Volvo
Model Sunfire 260
Year Released 1995 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2392 cc 2664 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 148 HP 146 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 176 Nm 219 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1681 kg 1350 kg
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 60 L


 

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