2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 22 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 264 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 264 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
