1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2011 BMW X6
To start off, 2011 BMW X6 is newer by 30 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW X6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X6 (480 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X6 weights approximately 1245 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 2011 BMW X6 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X6 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, 2011 BMW X6 (779 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2011 BMW X6 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 260 | X6 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 480 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 779 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 2615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4879 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1984 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1689 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2934 mm |
