2008 Opel Vectra vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 29 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 105 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Vectra | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Vectra | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
