2005 Holden Astra vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 260 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2005 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra, 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
