2012 Citroen C4 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2012 Citroen C4 is newer by 33 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 Citroen C4. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2012 Citroen C4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C4 weights approximately 264 kg more 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, 2012 Citroen C4, 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, 2012 Citroen C4 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 1979 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2012 Citroen C4 has manual transmission. 2012 Citroen C4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Citroen C4 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | C4 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
