2006 Smart ForFour vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 28 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) has 85 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForFour. (63 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 265 weights approximately 589 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Smart ForFour, 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) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForFour. (92 Nm). This means 1978 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Smart ForFour | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Smart | Volvo |
| Model | ForFour | 265 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1099 cc | 2664 cc |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 60 L |
