2009 Volkswagen Tiguan vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 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 Volkswagen Tiguan (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 957 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen Tiguan, 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 Volkswagen Tiguan (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260. 1980 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Tiguan | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2307 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
