1998 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 260 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
