1999 Renault Espace vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 1999 Renault Espace is newer by 20 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Espace (191 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Espace weights approximately 330 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. 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, 1999 Renault Espace, 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, 1999 Renault Espace (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Renault Espace | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Espace | 260 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
