2009 Volvo S80 vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (281 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260. 2009 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1976 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1976 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo S80 | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
