1978 Volvo 265 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 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 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265. 2004 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 265 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 265 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 265 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 265 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
