2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1979 Volvo 265
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 70 kg more than 1979 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volvo 265 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1979 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | Spider | 265 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
