2004 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 6 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 1979 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
