1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2007 BMW 330
To start off, 2007 BMW 330 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 330 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW 330 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 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2007 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 260 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
