2003 Volvo S40 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 75 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 1975 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1975 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1975 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Volvo S40 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | S40 | 260 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2523 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |