2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 262 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Thunderbird | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
