2008 BMW 523 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. 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:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 523 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
