2007 BMW 323 vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2007 BMW 323 is newer by 26 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, 2007 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 265. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 323 weights approximately 98 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 323 | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2849 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
