2006 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 25 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus, 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1213 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
