2006 Volvo S60 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (209 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S60 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S60 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
