2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 236 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 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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 Taurus (245 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Taurus | 260 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 219 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |