2004 Audi A4 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 24 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, 2004 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 180 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 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
