1996 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 18 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 1996 Opel Astra, 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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:
1996 Opel Astra | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Astra | 260 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 128 Nm | 219 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 73 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |