2001 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 260 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
