2006 Ford Escape vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Ford Escape is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Escape (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 260 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2006 Ford Escape.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape, 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, 2006 Ford Escape (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Escape | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escape | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
