2003 BMW M3 vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1976 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 260 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |