2009 BMW X5 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 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 X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X5 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
