2007 Volvo S80 vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volvo 260 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S80 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1976 Volvo 260.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S80, 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 S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S80 | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1616 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
