2011 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 33 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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu 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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 260 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4872 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2852 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
