2006 Volvo C70 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Volvo C70 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 15 more horse power than 2006 Volvo C70. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo C70 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
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 Volvo C70, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo C70. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo C70 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | C70 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1698 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
