2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260.
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 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Highlander | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Highlander | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
