2007 Volvo S60 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Volvo S60 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S60 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60, 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 Volvo S60 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S60 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S60 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
