1997 Toyota Avensis vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 1997 Toyota Avensis is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1997 Toyota Avensis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Avensis, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (172 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Avensis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Avensis | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Avensis | 260 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
