2001 BMW M vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 23 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 81 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M | 264 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 60 L |
