2007 Nissan Maxima vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Nissan Maxima 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 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Maxima (255 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 224 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 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, 2007 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2007 Nissan Maxima (342 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2007 Nissan Maxima 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. 2007 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Nissan Maxima | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Maxima | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1574 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2660 mm |
