1963 Volvo 120 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 373 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Volvo 120 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 1963 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Volvo 120 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 120 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
