1999 Volvo S80 vs. 1985 Volvo 780
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 780. (127 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 780. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1985 Volvo 780. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Volvo 780 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 1985 Volvo 780. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1985 Volvo 780 (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 780 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volvo S80 | 1985 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 780 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
