2006 Volvo S80 vs. 1979 Volvo 265
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 132 kg more than 1979 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80, 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 S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S80 | 1979 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1532 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
