2002 Subaru Forester vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2002 Subaru Forester is newer by 21 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 29 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Forester. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Forester weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
Because 2002 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Forester. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Subaru Forester | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Forester | 260 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
