2005 Opel Astra vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 172 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.
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 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, 2005 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
