1990 BMW 316 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 10 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 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
