1996 Audi S6 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1996 Audi S6 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi S6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi S6 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi S6 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi S6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi S6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Audi S6 (420 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi S6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi S6 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | S6 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
