1997 Volvo C70 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1997 Volvo C70 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70, 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, 1997 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo C70 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | C70 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
