2009 BMW X3 vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 306 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
