2005 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 24 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 24 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
Because 2005 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
