1981 Volvo 265 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (206 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 265. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 143 kg more than 1981 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70, 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 265. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 265 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 265 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
