1999 BMW 330 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1975 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 330 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
