1978 Volvo 265 vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia is newer by 30 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, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Opel Insignia. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Insignia.
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, 2008 Opel Insignia, 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, 2008 Opel Insignia (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265. 2008 Opel Insignia 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. 2008 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 265 | 2008 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 265 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2737 mm |
