2004 Subaru Forester vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Subaru Forester 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, 2004 Subaru Forester (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Forester weights approximately 113 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Forester (319 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Subaru Forester | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Forester | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1463 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
