2002 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 451 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 265. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
