2005 Saturn ION vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 260 (146 HP) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 260 weights approximately 106 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION, 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn ION | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | ION | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 146 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
