1997 Lancia Kappa vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 1997 Lancia Kappa is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Kappa (202 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 94 kg more than 1978 Volvo 264. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Kappa, 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 Lancia Kappa (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Kappa | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Kappa | 264 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
