2009 Ford Fusion vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Ford Fusion is newer by 30 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 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fusion (221 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 384 kg more than 2009 Ford Fusion.
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, 2009 Ford Fusion, 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, 2009 Ford Fusion (278 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2009 Ford Fusion has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Fusion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fusion | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Fusion | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
