2004 Volvo S80 vs. 1982 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1982 Volvo 260.
Because 1982 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 1982 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 1982 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S80. (221 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1982 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S80 | 1982 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
