1996 Opel Tigra vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1996 Opel Tigra 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 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Opel Tigra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Tigra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1996 Opel Tigra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Tigra, 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Tigra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Tigra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Tigra | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Tigra | 260 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2660 mm |
