2006 Saab 05-Sep vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Saab 05-Sep 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 05-Sep (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 300 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 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 Saab 05-Sep, 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 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saab 05-Sep | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 05-Sep | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
