2003 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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, 2003 BMW X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X5 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
