1991 Buick Riviera vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 1991 Buick Riviera is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Buick Riviera (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Buick Riviera weights approximately 116 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Buick Riviera, 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, 1991 Buick Riviera (285 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Buick Riviera | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | Riviera | 265 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 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 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1404 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |