2004 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra 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 50 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 5 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
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 Opel Astra, 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Opel Astra | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Astra | 260 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2849 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 73 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |