1970 Volvo 145 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 7 kg more than 1970 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo 145 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 1970 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volvo 145 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 145 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2639 mm |
