2001 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 260 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2849 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2660 mm |