2005 Mini Cooper vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Mini Cooper 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 Mini Cooper (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2005 Mini Cooper.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mini Cooper, 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, 2005 Mini Cooper (150 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mini Cooper | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | Cooper | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
