2009 Honda Element vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 31 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, 2009 Honda Element (164 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260.
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, 2009 Honda Element, 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, 1978 Volvo 260 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (161 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2009 Honda Element has manual transmission. 2009 Honda Element will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Element | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
