1996 Opel Vectra vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 260 weights approximately 126 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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, 1996 Opel Vectra (230 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 260. 1977 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Vectra | 260 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
