2004 Buick Century vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 170 kg more than 1976 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century, 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 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Century | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Century | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2660 mm |
