2001 Volvo S80 vs. 1979 Volvo 66
To start off, 2001 Volvo S80 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo S80 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 66.
Because 1979 Volvo 66 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 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 66. 2001 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volvo S80 | 1979 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 66 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1550 mm |
