2001 Lexus IS vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2001 Lexus IS is newer by 22 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 50 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Lexus IS (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | IS | 260 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
