1999 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 139 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | 260 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
