2004 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (130 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (183 Nm). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
