2003 Toyota Highlander vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Toyota Highlander is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota Highlander (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 335 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Toyota Highlander | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Highlander | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
