2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 315 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. 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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 1979 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 03-Sep | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 03-Sep | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
