2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 29 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260.
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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (228 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Sonata | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
