2002 Holden Astra vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 260 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden Astra, 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, 1975 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra. 1975 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2002 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Holden Astra | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 260 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
