1980 Volvo 260 vs. 2007 BMW 325
To start off, 2007 BMW 325 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 325 (216 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 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, 2007 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 260 | 2007 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 260 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
