2005 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (149 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1978 Volvo 264. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 264. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 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, 2005 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
