1998 Buick Signia vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 390 kg more than 1976 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Signia | 260 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
