1972 Mazda 818 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1972 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mazda 818 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 1972 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda 818 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 818 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2650 mm |
