1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 22 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 260 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | 260 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
