2008 Toyota Highlander vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2008 Toyota Highlander.
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, 2008 Toyota Highlander, 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota Highlander | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Highlander | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3546 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
