1981 Volvo 265 vs. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA

To start off, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is newer by 32 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (266 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 265. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA weights approximately 89 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, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA, 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, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 265. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan ALTIMA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 265.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Volvo 265 2013 Nissan ALTIMA
Make Volvo Nissan
Model 265 ALTIMA
Year Released 1981 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2849 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 153 HP 266 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 91 mm 95 mm
Engine Stroke Size 73 mm 81 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1422 kg 1511 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4864 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1829 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1476 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2776 mm