2001 Volkswagen W12 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 508 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (82 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen W12.
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 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 475 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (145 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen W12 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | W12 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 590 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
