2003 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 22 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, 2003 Dodge Intrepid (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 200 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 2003 Dodge Intrepid (257 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Intrepid | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Intrepid | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2735 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2660 mm |
