2006 Ford Fusion vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 28 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (160 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 1506 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. 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, 2006 Ford Fusion, 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fusion. (212 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fusion.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Fusion | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2277 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2856 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
