2012 Audi S5 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2012 Audi S5 is newer by 34 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S5 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi S5 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi S5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 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, 2012 Audi S5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi S5 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | S5 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4623 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1852 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1382 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2751 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
