2009 Nissan Maxima vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 217 kg more than 1980 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 265 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265. 2009 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1980 Volvo 265 has manual transmission. 1980 Volvo 265 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Maxima | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Maxima | 265 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2660 mm |
