2008 BMW 320 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 320 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | 260 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2849 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |