2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260.
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 Lotus Exige (237 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Exige | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2660 mm |
