2009 BMW 325 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 29 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, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 245 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.
Because 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 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, 2009 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 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 |
