1985 Volvo 780 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (269 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 780. (145 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 780. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 259 kg more than 1985 Volvo 780. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Volvo 780 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 1985 Volvo 780. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 780. (236 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 780.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volvo 780 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 780 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1679 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
