1988 Volvo 480 vs. 1979 Volvo 265
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 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 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 265 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. 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 Volvo 480, 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, 1979 Volvo 265 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 1979 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | 265 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2660 mm |
