2005 Volvo V50 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volvo V50 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
