1986 Rover 825i vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1986 Rover 825i is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Rover 825i (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Rover 825i should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Rover 825i weights approximately 6 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Rover 825i, 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Rover 825i. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Rover 825i.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Rover 825i | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Rover | Volvo |
| Model | 825i | 260 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
