2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 29 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 144 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260. 1975 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
