2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2660 mm |
