2007 Lotus Exige vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Lotus Exige is newer by 28 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, 2007 Lotus Exige (220 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Lotus Exige (225 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 1979 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2007 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2007 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Exige | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Exige | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2660 mm |
