2002 Subaru Outback vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 140 kg more than 1976 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1976 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1976 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Subaru Outback | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Outback | 260 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
