2007 BMW 525 vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2007 BMW 525 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 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 265. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 265 weights approximately 142 kg more than 2007 BMW 525.
Because 2007 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 265. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 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, 2007 BMW 525 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 265. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 525 | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
