2004 Audi S4 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | S4 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
