2006 Saturn ION vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 100 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Saturn ION | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Saturn | Volvo |
Model | ION | 260 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2194 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 197 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |