1997 Buick Riviera vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 1997 Buick Riviera is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Riviera (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (82 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Riviera weights approximately 181 kg more than 1980 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Buick Riviera (364 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (145 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Riviera | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Riviera | 265 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 58 L |
