2004 Volvo S80 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 324 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 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2004 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S80 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
