2006 BMW 325 vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,001 cc, 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 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, 2006 BMW 325 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 260. 1977 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2662 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
