2006 Volvo S40 vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 265. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1981 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40, 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 265. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
