2003 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
