2012 Volvo XC90 vs. 1979 Volvo 265
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1979 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 265. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volvo XC90 | 1979 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3200 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4808 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1897 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1783 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
