2004 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus.
Because 1980 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 1980 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, 2004 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
