2004 Volvo V40 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Volvo V40 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 V40 (169 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2004 Volvo V40.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40, 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 Volvo V40 (240 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo V40 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V40 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1950 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
