1972 Volvo 145 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1972 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo 145 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 145 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
