1988 Buick Reatta vs. 1979 Volvo 265
To start off, 1988 Buick Reatta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Reatta weights approximately 136 kg more than 1979 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta, 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, 1988 Buick Reatta (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Reatta | 1979 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Reatta | 265 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2660 mm |
