2000 Lancia Zeta vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2000 Lancia Zeta is newer by 19 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 8 more horse power than 2000 Lancia Zeta. (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2000 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
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, 2000 Lancia Zeta, 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, 2000 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Lancia Zeta | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Zeta | 260 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2660 mm |
