2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (139 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 20 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1978 Volvo 265 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1978 Volvo 265 has automatic transmission and 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 265 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volvo |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 265 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1424 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
