2005 Opel Astra vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Opel 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 49 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 260 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2005 Opel 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 Opel 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1977 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1350 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2660 mm |
