2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 28 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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 600 kg more than 1975 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
