2008 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (222 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 42 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Focus | 260 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2522 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 219 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |