2009 BMW 535 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 535 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1975 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 535 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 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 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 260. 1975 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 535 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 535 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
